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Safety and Health Topics: Toxic Metals: Mercury Mercury is naturally occurring and exists in several forms. High mercury exposure results in permanent nervous system and kidney damage. Exposure is most likely to occur during mining, production, and transportation of mercury, as well as mining and refining of gold and silver ores. Mercury is commonly found in thermometers, manometers, barometers, gauges, valves, switches, batteries, and high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps. It is also used in amalgams for dentistry, preservatives, heat transfer technology, pigments, catalysts, and lubricating oils. The following commonly asked questions link to resources that provide useful safety and health information about mercury. What are the properties and health effects of mercury compounds? Properties | Health Effects | Epidemiological Studies | Occupational Exposures How do I evaluate exposures to mercury? Elemental | Aryl and Inorganic | Organomercury What controls can I use to reduce exposures to mercury? Engineering Controls | PPE | Training What standards and guidelines apply to mercury? OSHA Standards | Standard Interpretations | Recommended Exposure Limits Where do I find additional assistance? Selected Publications   Revised: 14 August 2003		Safety and Health  Topics   Arsenic Beryllium Cadmium Hexavalent Chromium Lead Mercury   Properties and Health Effects   Evaluation   Controls   Compliance   Additional Assistance   Credits
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